IFlash Yongnuo 968EX RT: A Comprehensive Guide

Oct 23, 2025 by Jhon Lennon 47 views

Hey everyone! Today, we're diving deep into the iFlash Yongnuo 968EX RT, a popular speedlight known for its versatility and features. This guide will cover everything you need to know about this flash, from its core functionalities to potential troubleshooting and repairs. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned photographer, understanding your gear is crucial. Let's get started!

Unveiling the Yongnuo YN-968EX RT: Key Features and Benefits

Firstly, let's explore what makes the Yongnuo YN-968EX RT stand out. This flash unit is packed with features that cater to both amateur and professional photographers. Understanding these key aspects will help you leverage its full potential.

RT System Compatibility

The most significant advantage of the YN-968EX-RT is its built-in 2.4GHz radio transmission. This is the 'RT' part of its name, standing for Radio Transmission. It's compatible with Canon's RT (Radio Transmission) system, meaning it can be seamlessly integrated with Canon's Speedlite system. This allows for wireless triggering and control, offering a wide range of creative possibilities. You can trigger multiple flashes from a single master unit, creating complex lighting setups with ease. This is a game-changer for on-location shoots and studio setups where cables can be cumbersome. Imagine setting up multiple lights around a subject and controlling them all from your camera; that's the power of the RT system. Furthermore, the RT system provides a longer range for triggering compared to traditional optical slave systems. You can trigger your flashes from further distances, increasing your flexibility during shoots.

Powerful Guide Number

The YN-968EX-RT boasts a powerful guide number, which indicates its light output. A higher guide number means the flash can illuminate subjects at greater distances. This flash has a guide number of 60 meters at ISO 100 and 200mm zoom, making it suitable for a wide range of shooting scenarios. This is critical when shooting in environments where more light is needed, such as large rooms or outdoor settings. The guide number ensures you have enough power to freeze action and capture well-lit images, regardless of the distance between the flash and the subject. The high output makes it ideal for event photography, portraiture, and any situation requiring strong, reliable light.

Versatile Zoom Head

The flash head can zoom to adjust the beam angle, from 20mm to 200mm. This is incredibly useful as it allows you to adapt the flash to the focal length of your lens. When using a wide-angle lens, you can zoom the flash head to 20mm to cover the entire frame. For telephoto lenses, you can zoom the head to 200mm to focus the light and increase its effective range. This adaptability helps you to control the spread of light, preventing harsh shadows and ensuring even illumination across your subject. This feature ensures optimal performance across different lenses, providing greater control and flexibility in your lighting.

High-Speed Sync (HSS)

The YN-968EX-RT supports High-Speed Sync (HSS). This allows you to use shutter speeds faster than your camera's sync speed. Normally, cameras have a sync speed, usually around 1/200th or 1/250th of a second, beyond which the flash cannot synchronize properly with the shutter. HSS overcomes this limitation, letting you use faster shutter speeds to freeze motion, especially in bright sunlight, or to achieve a shallow depth of field. This capability is essential for outdoor photography where you need to balance the ambient light with flash to create stunning portraits. The ability to use faster shutter speeds gives you more creative freedom to control light and motion in your images.

Other Notable Features

Besides the mentioned features, the YN-968EX-RT includes:

LED Video Light: Integrated LED video light for continuous lighting, useful for video recording or as an autofocus assist light.
AF Assist Lamp: Helps the camera’s autofocus system in low-light conditions.
Bounce and Swivel Head: Allows you to bounce the flash off walls and ceilings to create soft, flattering light.
Custom Functions: Lets you customize the flash settings to suit your shooting style.

Setting Up and Using Your Yongnuo YN-968EX RT

Alright, now that we've covered the features, let's get down to the practical aspects. How do you set up and use the Yongnuo YN-968EX RT effectively? Proper setup is crucial for getting the best results.

Mounting the Flash

First, attach the flash to your camera's hot shoe. Make sure it's securely locked into place. Ensure the flash is properly seated and locked. This connection provides power and allows communication between your camera and the flash. Always double-check that the flash is securely mounted to avoid any issues during your shoot.

Powering On

Insert the batteries (typically AA batteries) into the flash. Then, power on the flash. You should see the LCD display light up. This display shows you all the important information about your flash settings, such as the zoom level, flash mode, and battery life. Familiarize yourself with the layout and what each setting means. The power button is usually located on the side or back of the flash unit.

Choosing a Flash Mode

The YN-968EX-RT offers various flash modes, including:

TTL (Through The Lens): The flash automatically adjusts the power based on the camera's metering system.
Manual: You manually set the flash power (e.g., 1/1, 1/2, 1/4, etc.).
Multi (Stroboscopic): The flash fires multiple times during a single exposure, useful for creative effects.

Select the appropriate mode based on your shooting needs. TTL is great for beginners as it simplifies the process, while manual mode gives you full control. Understand each mode to maximize your shooting flexibility.

Setting the Zoom

Adjust the flash head zoom to match the focal length of your lens. This ensures the flash covers your entire frame evenly. Remember to adjust the zoom setting on the flash unit according to your lens’s focal length to avoid unwanted vignetting or a concentrated beam of light.

Wireless Triggering (RT System)

To use the RT system:

Set the flash as a slave: Configure the YN-968EX-RT to be a slave unit, receiving signals from a master flash or a trigger. This is done through the flash menu.
Use a master flash or trigger: You'll need either another YN-968EX-RT set as a master or a Canon RT-compatible transmitter (like the Canon ST-E3-RT). This acts as the command center for your flash system.
Set the channels and groups: Match the channel and group settings on your master and slave units to ensure they communicate effectively. Different groups allow you to control multiple flashes separately.

Basic Settings and Menu Navigation

Familiarize yourself with the flash menu. It allows you to adjust settings such as:

Flash Compensation: Adjusts the flash output for TTL mode.
Custom Functions: Allows you to customize settings like the beep sound, energy-saving mode, and more.
Flash Mode: Select between TTL, Manual, or Multi-flash modes.

Taking the time to understand the menu settings will greatly enhance your ability to get the most out of your flash unit. Use the navigation buttons on the flash unit to access and modify the different settings. Regularly checking and adjusting these settings will significantly impact the quality of your photographs.

Troubleshooting Common Issues with the Yongnuo YN-968EX RT

Alright, let's talk about some of the issues you might encounter with your Yongnuo YN-968EX RT and how to fix them. Even with reliable gear, problems can arise. Here's a quick guide.

Flash Not Firing

Dead Batteries: Check and replace the batteries. Sounds obvious, but it's a common issue. Low battery power will prevent the flash from firing. Always keep spare batteries handy to prevent interruptions during your shoots.
Incorrect Flash Mode: Ensure the flash is not in a mode that prevents it from firing (e.g., in a sync speed that is too fast for your camera's limitations). Review the different flash modes and make sure the mode is compatible with your camera settings.
Loose Connection: Make sure the flash is properly mounted on the hot shoe and securely locked in place. A loose connection will prevent the flash from working.
Communication Problems: If using the RT system, verify that the master and slave units are on the same channel and group. Sometimes interference can occur. Try changing the channel if you are in a crowded area. Also, check the connection and make sure your transmitter and flash are properly synced.

Incorrect Flash Exposure

TTL Overexposure/Underexposure: Adjust the flash compensation setting. If your images are consistently overexposed or underexposed in TTL mode, modify the flash compensation settings to achieve the correct exposure. TTL can sometimes misjudge the exposure, so adjustments are often necessary.
Manual Mode Issues: Double-check your manual power settings. Make sure you have set the correct power level based on your distance to the subject and your desired aperture. When using manual mode, you have complete control over the light output, so it is necessary to calibrate it according to the conditions of your photoshoot.
Bounce Flash Problems: Ensure the flash head is angled correctly when bouncing light. The angle of the flash head is key to the overall lighting effect. Experiment with different angles and surfaces to see how the light bounces and affects your scene.

Wireless Triggering Issues

Range Limitations: The RT system has a good range, but obstructions can affect it. Keep the flashes within the specified range of the trigger or master flash. Remember to consider physical obstructions (walls, trees, etc.) that may interfere with the signal.
Channel Interference: Other photographers or devices might be using the same channel. Try changing the channel on your flash and transmitter to avoid interference. This is particularly important in crowded environments, where many photographers or devices may interfere with your signal.
Slave Mode Settings: Ensure the flash is set to the correct slave mode. Verify that your slave units are correctly configured to receive signals from the master unit. Check the receiver on the flash to ensure that it's correctly enabled.

Repairing Your Yongnuo YN-968EX RT: What You Can Do

Okay, so what if things go wrong? Can you repair the Yongnuo YN-968EX RT yourself? The answer is: it depends. Let’s break down the possibilities.

Basic Troubleshooting and Cleaning

Battery Contacts: Corrosion or dirt on the battery contacts can prevent the flash from working. Clean the contacts with a cotton swab and isopropyl alcohol. Corrosion often happens from battery leakage or exposure to moisture.
External Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the external surfaces of the flash. Avoid using liquids. Keep the flash clean by removing dust and smudges to avoid issues. Regular cleaning is essential to keep the flash unit functioning properly and prolong its lifespan.
Firmware Updates: Check for any available firmware updates. The manufacturer may release updates that can fix bugs or improve performance. Always ensure you are running the latest firmware to get the most out of your flash.

Common DIY Repairs

You might be able to handle some simple repairs yourself:

Battery Door Issues: If the battery door breaks, you might find replacement parts online. You can attempt to replace the door yourself, but be careful not to damage the internal components. These parts are usually available, and replacing them can be easy. However, be cautious when handling these delicate parts.
Loose Screws: Tighten any loose screws you find. Ensure that all the screws on your flash unit are tight to prevent any malfunction. Often, a simple screwdriver will do the job, but do not overtighten them, as it can cause damage.
Reflector/Diffuser Replacement: If your reflector or diffuser is damaged, you may be able to replace it yourself. However, ensure that the replacements match the original specifications. If your reflector or diffuser gets damaged, consider replacing it with a new one; this is usually a simple replacement that can be done at home.

When to Seek Professional Repair

For more complex issues, it's best to consult a professional repair service.

Circuit Board Issues: Problems with the flash's circuit board, such as short circuits, are best left to professionals. Attempting to repair the circuit board yourself can lead to further damage and potential safety hazards. Circuit board repairs require specialized equipment and expertise.
Internal Component Failures: If the flash tube, capacitors, or other internal components fail, it's best to have a professional repair it. These repairs require specialized tools and expertise. Replacing these components requires dismantling the flash, which can be risky for those who are not familiar with the inner workings of the electronic components.
LCD Display Issues: If the LCD display malfunctions beyond simple issues, such as a dead display or missing segments, seek professional help. Replacing an LCD panel may require specific tools and knowledge to avoid causing damage.

Finding a Repair Service

Authorized Service Centers: Check Yongnuo's website for authorized service centers in your area. These centers have the expertise and genuine parts needed for repairs.
Local Camera Repair Shops: Many local camera repair shops can repair speedlights. Research and read reviews to ensure they have experience with flash units.
Online Repair Services: Several online repair services specialize in camera and flash repairs. Research their reputation and reviews before sending your flash for repair. Ensure that the service offers a warranty on their repairs.

Maintaining Your Yongnuo YN-968EX RT for Longevity

Okay, let's talk about keeping your Yongnuo YN-968EX RT in tip-top shape. Regular maintenance will prolong its life and ensure it performs optimally. Here's a quick guide to help you maintain your flash unit.

Proper Storage

Remove Batteries: Always remove the batteries when the flash isn't in use for an extended period. This prevents battery leakage, which can damage the flash. Removing the batteries will prevent any damage to the battery contacts and other components.
Store in a Dry Place: Store the flash in a dry, cool place away from direct sunlight and humidity. Humidity can cause corrosion and damage electronic components. Keep it away from moisture and extreme temperatures to protect its internal parts.
Protective Case: Use the provided protective case or a padded camera bag to protect the flash from dust, scratches, and impacts. Always store your flash inside its carrying case or a padded compartment within your camera bag to avoid damage.

Battery Management

Use High-Quality Batteries: Use high-quality, rechargeable AA batteries. Poor quality batteries may not provide enough power or may leak and cause damage. Using the correct battery type guarantees maximum performance and avoids potential damage from leaked batteries.
Regular Charging: Recharge your batteries regularly if you use rechargeable ones. Avoid overcharging or completely discharging your batteries. Follow the battery manufacturer’s recommendations for charging and maintenance.
Battery Check: Check the batteries regularly for any signs of leakage or corrosion. Replace the batteries as soon as you find any issues to prevent damage to the flash. Clean the battery contacts to ensure optimal performance.

Cleaning and Handling

Regular Cleaning: Regularly clean the flash with a soft, dry cloth. This removes dust and debris that can accumulate and affect performance. Keep your flash free of dust and moisture to prevent malfunctions.
Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Avoid using harsh chemicals or solvents to clean the flash. These can damage the finish or internal components. Always use a soft cloth and, if necessary, a small amount of isopropyl alcohol to clean the flash.
Handle with Care: Handle the flash with care to avoid dropping it or subjecting it to physical impacts. Be mindful of the surrounding conditions when using the flash. Avoid placing it in situations where it might be exposed to extreme temperatures, such as direct sunlight or extreme cold.

Firmware Updates

Stay Updated: Keep the flash's firmware up to date. This ensures you have the latest features and bug fixes. Regularly check for firmware updates on the Yongnuo website. Download and install the updates following the instructions to avoid any issues during the process.

Conclusion: Mastering the Yongnuo YN-968EX RT

So there you have it! The Yongnuo YN-968EX RT is a versatile and powerful speedlight that, with proper knowledge and care, can enhance your photography. Remember to familiarize yourself with its features, set it up correctly, troubleshoot any issues, and maintain it regularly. Whether you’re shooting portraits, events, or anything in between, the YN-968EX-RT can be a valuable asset to your kit. Keep practicing, experimenting, and have fun capturing stunning images! Happy shooting, everyone! Now go out there and create some amazing photos! Let your creativity shine and enjoy the process of learning and mastering your photography gear. Keep experimenting and pushing your creative boundaries. Photography is a continuous journey of learning and discovery. Don't be afraid to try new things and see how your skills and creativity improve over time. Remember to enjoy the process and have fun! Happy shooting!